Discusses the contentious relationship between educators within the former East Germany and their West German cohorts following reunification. The problems have stemmed from conflicting ideologies and traditions (Marxist versus Christian Democrat and Social Democrat) as well as differences concerning school organization and educational objectives.…

Examines the approaches taken, the topics discussed, and the practical results of the 1944 conference, "Germany after the War." Organized and led by psychiatrist Richard Brickner, the conference focused on reeducation, institutional change, and psychological rehabilitation. The conference recommendations became highly relevant in the…

Compares the reeducation efforts of post-war Germany with the role played by education supporting the German reunification with East Germany. Examines parallels involving autonomy and self-determination with the earlier Bavarian controversy. Concludes that Western-style educational reforms alone will not be able to create pluralistic societies in…

Examines the relationship between social problems, financial constraints, and democratic values in Costa Rica and how these impact on the educational establishment. Although long considered an exemplar of developing nation democracy, Costa Rica's social stratification is reflected in its inadequate public school funding. (MJP)

Reveals that teaching about controversial issues increases students' self-confidence and interest in civic participation. Asserts that the current proliferation of social problems combined with exploitative media coverage necessitates civil and objective study of controversial issues. Includes several examples of, and approaches to, teaching about…

An action research project emphasized the centrality of teachers' values in teaching decisions. After identifying grading papers as a source of tension, a teacher opened decisions about grading to democratic decision making, resulting in more positive professor-student relationships, more emphasis on learning, and improved student evaluations of…

Technology education in teacher preparation should challenge preservice students to build new understandings beyond the technical about the relationship of technology in schools to society and the connection of that relationship to democratic life. The paper examines the perspectives of student teachers in a one-year program that infuses…

Presents the central features of an economic theory of social equilibrium based on the theory of distributive equilibrium. Uses the situation in Latin America in the 1980s and 1990s to test the validity of the theory. Argues that excessive inequality cripples sustained growth and democratic movements. (MJP)

Describes the current state of juvenile criminal justice programs and the historical and legal precedents that created it. The current system rests on concepts of confidentiality, due process, and alternatives to jail. Many states are considering modifying aspects of these because of the increase in juvenile crime. (MJP)

Presents a lesson plan that teaches students to analyze the goals and effectiveness of the juvenile justice system. Instructional materials include handouts describing three criminal situations involving teenagers and copies of an article on the juvenile justice system. Activities include small group discussions followed by a class discussion.…

Summarizes E. D. Hirsch's book, "Cultural Literacy," focusing on four separate arguments. Compares U.S. and Canadian education and society, particularly in relationship to multiculturalism and bilingualism. Concludes that Hirsch trivializes culture by presenting as no more than a common convention of effective national communication.…

Questions what assessment strategies are appropriate for the National Standards and how they might differ from more traditional assessments. Provides guidelines for standards-based assessments and several sets of sample questions. Suggests the adoption of performance assessment strategies for material requiring evaluative thinking. (MJP)

Asserts that traditional approaches to art education ignore such issues as the effect of the social and political environment on the production of art, and the influence of the marketplace. Contrasts the views of working artists and art educators on a set of broad issues including media and technology. (MJP)

Observes that, although textbook reform in occupied Japan originally supported democratic principles of openness and competition, it later became a mechanism for anticommunist censorship. Maintains that interpretations of Japan's military conduct remain highly politicized and controversial. (MJP)

Maintains that social studies education arose out of a concern for an educational system that prepared citizens for a democratic society. Describes the influence of the National Education Association and the American Historical Association on the National Council for the Social Studies. (CFR)